This is a special private tour that can be fully customized to your interests — from UNESCO World Heritage sites to hidden gems loved by locals.
I’ll take you to Kyoto’s special spots, sharing local tips and warm hospitality along the way.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Meet at Kyoto Station
- For the most time efficient start, I recommend meeting at Kyoto Station (Central Exit). But if you prefer, I can also meet you at your hotel. Please note that pick-up may not be possible from some hotels depending on their location.
Fushimi-Inari Taisha
One of Kyoto’s most iconic shrines, famous for its thousands of red torii gates winding through the forest. Dedicated to the god of prosperity, it's a beautiful and spiritual place to explore on foot.
Gion -The heart of Kyoto’s Geisha(Maiko) Culture
I’ll share the fascinating and little-known world of geisha culture — including the differences between maiko (apprentice) and geiko (fully trained geisha) — in an engaging and easy-to-understand way.
Kyoto's oldest Zen Temple - Under the Gaze of the Twin Dragons
Kennin-ji is known for its calm atmosphere and stunning artwork. One highlight is the dramatic twin dragon ceiling painting, a powerful modern masterpiece that seems to come alive as you gaze up from the main hall.
Nishiki Market-Kyoto’s Colorful Kitchen and Shopping Paradise
Nicknamed “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” Nishiki Market is a lively, historic arcade packed with local eats, sweets, and traditional ingredients.
Beyond the food, nearby streets offer crafts, souvenirs, and trendy shops—perfect for strolling, tasting, and shopping all at once.
Ending Point
Tour ends at Nishiki Market
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Guide Fee
Public transportation fees (from 370 yen per person).
Temple&Shrine entrance fees(800 yen per person)
Meals or refreshments during the tour
or any other personal expenses are not included.
**At many sites,my official Guide license allows me to enter free of charge.
* This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
* This tour is not recommended for those with severe back/knee problems.
* This tour is wheelchair accessible.
* Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
My days off vary each week, so I can't specify a fixed day I'm available, but I'm flexible and can adjust to your request.
I am a Certified English Interpreter Guide certifed by Kyoto City, Uji City, and Otsu City (recognized as the top performer in my training program!). I have lived in 7 countries—the US, Canada, the UK, Malaysia, Russia, Vietnam, and Iran—including 9 years in the US (California, New York and Texas). These experiences allowed me to embrace diverse cultures and develop a truly global perspective.
I am also a descendant of Hijikata Toshizo, one of Japan’s legendary “last samurai.” My family runs a private museum dedicated to his life and legacy, and I was raised with a deep respect for traditional Japanese culture and the spirit of bushido.
With this background, I guide international guests with a Japanese heart and a global perspective, creating warm and personalized experiences.
At Expo 2025 in Osaka, I served as a dedicated VIP liaison at the Japan Pavilion, assisting royal families and world leaders while honing advanced VIP protocol and hospitality skills.
Before guiding in Japan, I worked as a licensed tour guide in New York City and appeared on a national Japanese TV program as a field reporter, sharing local life and culture. My career has always focused on caring for people in English speaking roles: as a British Airways flight attendant, a medical interpreter at an international clinic, and an administrator at a UN international school with students from 65 countries.
Originally from Tokyo, I guide in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Uji, where I combine historical knowledge with personal experience. I also offer tours in Tokyo and surrounding areas upon request.
I look forward to welcoming you and sharing the unforgettable beauty, culture, and spirit of Japan!
$203/ per group